Get Rid of Underarm Hair

Are you embarrassed by your underarm hair? Are you too afraid to raise your arms? Fear not. The problem of unwanted underarm hair is easily remedied. Here are some of the best ways to achieve smooth underarm perfection.

Steps

Removing Underarm Hair With A Razor

  1. Clean your underarms. Washing with warm water and soap is best. Any oils, deodorants, and other residues that could clog your razor will be removed.[1]
  2. Apply shave gel to your underarms. Shave gel helps razors move across your skin more smoothly, preventing cuts and nicks.[1]
  3. Lift one of your arms above your head. This movement pulls your skin taut. You’ll now be able to remove hair from hard to reach areas with your razor more easily.[1]
  4. Move your razor in an X motion. Underarm hair grows in a swirl pattern. Using an X motion helps to prevent skin irritations and ensures a closer shave.[2]
  5. Rinse your underarm with cool water. The cool water will close your pores.[1]
  6. Repeat on your opposite underarm. Once you’ve finished shaving the first underarm, follow the process again on the second underarm.
    • Use warm water to rinse your razor. You should rinse your razor in-between each shave to keep it clean.[2]
  7. Replace your razor blade after every few uses. You apply more pressure against your skin when you use a dull razor, which can lead to razor burn.[2]
    • Visit your doctor if your razor burn and bumps won’t go away. They could be signs of a more serious skin condition.[2]

Removing Underarm Hair With A Depilatory Cream

  1. Take a shower. Hydrated hair is easier to remove than dry because dry hair is harder and takes longer to dissolve.[3]
  2. Apply the depilatory cream to both of your underarms. The cream is thick, so don’t worry about it accidentally rinsing off if you choose to wash your hair while you wait for the cream to work.
  3. Wait for the length of time specified by the instructions. Depilatory creams usually work in 10 minutes or less, but it’s always good to check the instructions for the one you’re using.[4]
    • Wipe off the cream immediately if you experience a burning sensation. Any pain means you’ve left the product on too long or your skin is too sensitive.[5]
    • You may want to do an allergy test 24 hours before you intend to use the depilatory cream. Put a small amount of the cream on your forearm for the length of time recommended by the instructions. Remove and check for any redness. Do not use the cream if you have a reaction.[6]
  4. Use a towel to clean both of your underarms. You’ll see both cream and hairs in the towel. Don’t freak out! The depilatory cream’s chemicals break down keratin in your hair, making it easy to wipe both away.[6]
  5. Wash both of your underarms. Soap and water will remove any remaining residue.

Removing Underarm Hair With Wax

  1. Wash your underarms. Prepping your skin with soap and water helps to prevent ingrown hairs and bumps.[7]
    • Your underarm hair should be at least ¼” long so the wax can pull out the hair. Wait a few days if your hair is too short.[8]
  2. Apply a layer of baby powder to your underarms. The baby powder will get rid of extra moisture and help the wax to adhere to your skin better.[8]
  3. Heat the wax. The kit should have instructions for you to follow.
  4. Check the temperature of the wax. Apply a small amount on the inside of your wrist. You want to make sure the wax is spreadable, but not hot enough to burn you.[8]
  5. Spread a 1” x 2” layer of wax on your underarm. Your kit will come with a spatula. Use the spatula to spread the wax in the direction of the hair growth.[8]
  6. Press a strip down onto the area with wax. Your kit will come with multiple strips. You can cut the strips into smaller pieces if needed.[8]
  7. Pull the strip off in one quick motion. You’ll want to pull it off in the opposite direction of the hair growth.[8]
    • Quickness is the key to avoiding pain.[8]
    • Underarm hair grows in multiple directions. So, you may need to wax the same underarm more than once.[8]
  8. Repeat on your opposite underarm. After you’ve finished waxing your underarm, repeat the process on your opposite underarm.
  9. Apply aloe vera to your underarms. The aloe vera will calm and soothe your skin.



Tips

  • Wait several minutes before applying deodorant or antiperspirant if you have sensitive skin.[1]

Warnings

  • Don't remove hair from areas that have sore or broken skin to avoid further harm.

Things You'll Need

Removing Underarm Hair With Razors

  • Shave Gel
  • Razor

Removing Underarm Hair With Depilatory Creams

  • Depilatory Cream
  • Towel

Removing Underarm Hair With Wax

  • Home Waxing Kit
  • Baby Powder
  • Aloe Vera

Related Articles

Sources and Citations